Before anyone could ask a question, I spoke.

“For the record,” I said, “Mr Montague and I were in a relationship some years ago. I've declared that in writing to the panel this morning. I'll chair today's interview so that it runs fairly. But I won't score Mr Montague, and I won't take part in the decision. Fiona and Dougie will decide.”

James blinked.

Then he laughed. A relaxed, easy laugh, like we were old friends at a party.

“Holly, honestly, there's no need for all that,” he said. “We go way back. You know me. You know what I can do.”

He smiled at Fiona and Dougie.

“Holly and I were together for four years. Edinburgh Uni. She'll tell you, I've always been the ambitious one.”

Dougie Paterson looked at him over his reading glasses for a long moment.

“Aye,” said Dougie. “She did mention.”

James's smile flickered.

“Shall we begin?” said Fiona.